2008 Budget Book - Laserfiche WebLink

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INTRODUCTION The City of St. Anthony is primarily a residential community, which neighbors the communities of Minneapolis, Roseville, New Brighton and Columbia Heights. The City is at or near full development, with the economy consisting of light industrial, commerce and retail related businesses. Form of Government The City of St. Anthony operates under the Statutory Plan B form of government. Under this form of government, the City Council appoints the City Manager who then governs the Administration, Finance, Police, Fire, Public Works and Liquor Departments. Budaet Process On April 24, 2007, the City Council held a public hearing to discuss the budget goals for 2008 and review estimated revenues and expenditures. The purpose of the meeting is to provide the Citizens with an opportunity to communicate suggestions and recommendations concerning the 2008 budget. In late May, Department Heads start the preparation of their budgets for the next calendar year (St. Anthony's fiscal year is a calendar year). In June, Department Heads submit their budget requests for the general, special revenue, debt service and enterprise funds to the Finance Director. Budget requests are reviewed to determine if they are accurate, reasonable and well justified. Staff requests may be modified according to projected revenues, needs and justification. Once completed, the budget is prepared based upon initial revenue estimates, departmental budget requests, historical trends and financial policies. The City's five-year capital equipment plan and corresponding upgrades to city buildings are prepared in a similar manner, however are expanded to include longer-term goals, needs and projections. At the first meeting Council Meeting in September, the City certified a proposed tax levy and budget to Hennepin and Ramsey Counties. Once the proposed levy has been certified, the levy cannot be increased, but may be reduced during the final certification process in December. In late October, staff calculates the proposed tax rate and tax capacity numbers to determine the impact on residential and commercial properties.